Pele hoping to grow at Valladolid

Midfielder presented in Spain

Vitor Pele was unveiled as a Real Valladolid player this afternoon after signing a one-year loan contract from Porto, and admitted that progressing as a player will be his main focus this season.

The 21-year-old played little football last season, spending the first half of the campaign with Porto, before heading to England and Portsmouth, where he saw almost no action. Now, after a proposed move to Genoa fell through, Pele has signed a one-year deal with Valladolid, where he expects to help both himself and the team progress.

“I am a defensive midfielder who is characterised by winning the ball,” he told Spanish journalists while being presented alongside Manucho, who joined from Manchester United. “I also like to play the game and play long passes to my team-mates. I hope to provide strength and quality in the middle of the pitch.

“My time in Italy (with Inter in 20007/08) was very good and I grew a lot as a player. In Portugal, it wasn’t so good, so for that reason I’m focused on playing well in the Spanish league and giving my best. I want to grow as a player and for Valladolid to grow in the league.”

Valladolid president suggested at the press conference that it could prove difficult for the club to keep Pele at the Jose Zorrilla, and Pele was coy about his intentions beyond the upcoming campaign.

“My goal is to have a very good season and for Valladolid to do the same, and at the end we will see whether I return to Porto or remain here.”